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(Des Moines, IA) -- A bill that would require public schools to allow private school students to join their sports teams is heading to the Governor’s desk.
“If private school students get to take spots on the teams at our public schools—with public schools’ limited resources—then let public school kids have the same opportunity at private schools, with their unlimited resources,” said Democratic State Senator Sarah Trone Garriott.
Opponents of the bill argue that it is another way to funnel public tax dollars toward private education and that it prioritizes private schools over public ones.
The bill passed the Senate on Wednesday with an amendment that delays changes for certain sports at public schools to avoid interfering with summer programs. It also clarifies that the bill does not override existing agreements between schools.
Republican State Senator Lynn Evans said the bill is more about supporting private schools in smaller communities, and allowing students to have access to more experiences.
“We are talking about very small private schools. So, for me to add two of the Christian school kids into my junior high football program—it didn’t cost me a dime. I already had coaches and equipment,” said Senator Evans.
Private school students are only eligible to play for a public school team if a sport hasn’t been offered at a private school in the previous two years, and if the student lives in the public school district or a neighboring district.
Governor Reynolds has 29 days to take action on any outstanding bills.